Knox County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 40 of 56)

Mr. Craig began his education in the public schools and afterward attended Knox College, Notre Dame University and the United States Naval Academy. He was a student in the law office of Stevenson & Ewing, of Bloomington and also attended the Wesleyan Law School. Following his admission to the bar, in 1888, he began practice and for twenty-three years has been an active representative of the legal profession in Galesburg. He has been in general practice and the success which he has attained is due to his own efforts and merits. He has been counsel in many important cases tried in Knox and adjoining counties and has enjoyed a large practice before the courts of this state and in other states. Inaddition to his law practice Mr. Craig is interested in farming and is identified with various business interests in this cty. He has been a director of the Bank of Galesburg and also its attorney for several years and is now president of that bank. Mr. Craig is a democrat and has taken an active interest in politics until his increasing law practice and business interests demanded his entire time. He was elected a member of the forty-first and forty-second general assembly, was chairman of the committee on agriculture of the Illinois commission at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition at St. Louis ; was nominated as the candidate of his general farming but does not attempt to raise more grain than is needed to feed his Hereford cattle, of which he has yearly about thirty head. Besides his farming interests Mr. Reed owns stock in the Farmers' Mutual Telephone Company and is vice president and director of the La Fayette Fair Association.

Mr. Reed was united in marriage to Miss Jessie I. Grant, a native of Lynn township and a daughter of H. P. and Lucy (Xorton) Grant, the father born in Peoria county, Illinois, and the mother in the state of Connecticut. The parents were married in Stark county and lived in Lynn township until the time of the retirement of the father who first removed to Galva. Illinois, and later to La Fayette. where he now resides, making his home with his daughter. The mother died at the age of seventy -one years and is buried in La Fayette. The father followeil the occupation of farming and in connection was an auctioneer and also served as assessor and later as supervisor of Lynn township, being elected on the republican ticket. They were the parents of seven children : Ellen, the wife of John Reed, of Galesburg township: Arthur, who resides in Stark county. Illinois : Jessie I., now Mrs. Joseph G. Reed : Fred, who res'ides in Victoria township: Claude, of Galesburg: X. B.. of Stark county: and Harold, of Victoria township. ^Mr. and Mrs. Reed have become the parents of two sons : Walter A., who was born in Lynn township and lives at home : and Roy W.. who was born in Victoria township and died there at the age of eight years. He is buried in the Galva cemetery. Mr. Reed in political allegiance is independent and fraternally he is identified with the Masonic order and is master of the lodge. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian church at La Fayette and all their acquaintances entertain for them the highest regard.

Charles C Craig

Charles C. Craig, lawyer, was lx>m in Knoxvillc. this county, on the i6th of June. 1865. his parent^ being Alfred M. and Elizabeth P. (Harvey) Craig.

Mr. Craig began lii> education in the pul)lic schools and afterward attended Knox College. Xotre Dame L'niversity and the L'nitetl States Xaval Academy. He was a student in the law oflfice of Stevenson & Ewing, of Bloomington and also attended the \\'esleyan Law School, l-'ollowing his admission to the bar. in 1888, he began practice and for twenty-three years has been an active representative of the legal jirofession in Galesburg. He has been in general practice and the success which he has attained is due to his own efforts and merits. He has been counsel in many im])ortant cases tried in Knox and adjoining counties and has enjoyed a large ])ractice before the courts of this state and in other states. Inaddition to his law practice Mr. Craig is interested in farming and is identified with various business interests in this cty. He has been a director of the Bank of Galesburg and also its attorney for several years and is now president of that bank. Mr. Craig is a democrat and has taken an active interest in politics until his increasing law jjractice and business interests demanded his entire time. He was elected a member of the forty-first and forty-second general assembly, was chairman of the committee on agriculture of the Illinois commission at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition at St. Louis : was nominated as the candidate of his party for judge of the supreme court, in 1909, and only defeated by a small majority. He also has an interesting military chapter in his life history, having for several years served as captain of Battery B, of the First Artillery, Illinois National Guard, while at the present writing he is lieutenant colonel and ordinance officer, on the staff of General Kittleson, of the Third Brigade and is instructor and supen'isor of rifle practice of the various companies in the Northwest part of the state.

On the 1 5th of July, 1893, Mr. Craig was married to Miss Louise Dary, a daughter of Eugene and Sidonia (Benedict) Dary, of New Orleans. Her father was a merchant of that city and Memphis. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Their daughter, Mrs. Craig, has been continuously a resident of Galesburg since her marriage. Both he and Mrs. Craig are well known socially in this city and throughout the state. Colonial Craig is a member of the Galesburg Club, the Elks and several other societies, while in Masonry he has attained high rank, holding membership in Galesburg Commandery, Knights Templar and in the Mystic Shrine. His interests are wide and varied and his influence is found on the side of progress and improvement. He has always been popular with his business associates.

Ira Bulson, one of the well known native sons of Victoria township as well as one of the highly successful and capable agriculturists, was born on the farm, where he now resides, on the 7th of October, 1863. His father, Frederick Bulson, one of the pioneer settlers of Knox county, was bom and reared in Otsego county. New York. At an age between twenty-one and twenty-two years he left his native state and came west, locating in Knox county. Here he met and married Miss Mary Heinline, who was a native of Kentucky, subsequently locating on the farm now owned and operated by their son Ira. Mr. Bulson was an ambitious, enterprising agriculturist and capable business man, who directed his undertakings with intelligence and sagacity. He met with success ultimately, although the early years were well filled with the usual obstacles and difficulties that confront the pioneer. He erected practically all of the buildings now standing on the place and brought the fields into a high state of productivity. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Bulson numbered eight, our subject being the seventh in order of birth. The others are as follows : Sarah, the wife of Clinton Bradley, of Iowa ; Hannah, the deceased wife of David Shearer ; Lizzie, who married M. A. Shearer of Clay county, Nebraska ; Georg^, who died in childhood; Alice, the wife, of Henry Turner of Clay county, Nebraska; Mary, who is a resident of Santa Anna, California ; and Adam, who passed away at the age of twenty-two years. The children were born and reared on the farm and there the parents passed the latter years of their life, the mother being sixty at the time of her death, while the father had attained the venerable age of eightysix when called to his final rest. They are both buried in the cemetery at Victoria. Mr. Bulson was one of the foremost citizens of the township and took an active and helpful interest in its -political affairs, giving his support to the can-

- didates of the democratic party. He discharged with efficiency the duties of pathmaster and at one time he was also a member of the board of school directors.

The entire life of Ira Bulson has been passed on the farm he now owns and which is endeared to him by the memories of childhood as well as the associations of his mature years. He attended the district school in the vicinity of his home, and while mastering the elements of English learning assisted with the work of the farm, the services of the entire family being required to perform the multitudinous duties connected with its operation. When he had acquired a sufficient public-school training, he gave his entire attention to agricultural pursuits, with the intention of qualifying himself to adopt this life vocation upon attaining his maturity. After his marriage he brought his bride to the home of his parents, later acquiring the title to the property. Since becoming the owner of the farm, Mr. Bulson has remodeled and improved many of the buildings to which he has also made additions. As his circumstances have warranted during the passing years he has introduced various modern conveniences and appliances

,. that have added greatly to the ccMnfort and value of the place. His operations have always been conducted along the lines of general farming, but in connection therewith he has also raised stock, both lines of departure having proven remunerative under his capable direction. Success has attended the efforts of Mr. Bulson and in addition to his valuable property he owns stock in the Farmers' Elevator at Victoria and the Farmers' Cooperative State Bank at Galva.

Mr. Bulson has twice married, his first union being with Miss Minnie Dudley, and they became the parents of a son and daughter, Harry and Jessie. On the 2d of June, 1911, Mr. Bulson and Miss Laura Boggs were united in marriage. The present Mrs. Bulson is a native of Galva and a daughter of Light and Laura Boggs, residents of that place. His holdings are located in Lynn and Victor townships, but he resides on section 6 of Victoria township, his house facing the road that divides Copley and Victor townships.

Ever since granted the right of franchise upon attaining his majortiy, Mr. Bulson has accorded his support to the men and measures of the democratic party. Although he is interested in local political activities and meets the requirements of good citizenship by the casting of his ballot on election day, he has never aspired to office, always having preferred to give his undivided attention to the development of his private affairs. Both Mr. Bulson and his family are held in high esteem in the community, where the name has been held in favorable regard for three generations, and the hospitality of the best homes is freely accorded them. . .''%--;';-

William Henry Gibbs, who is successfully engaged in the insurance business in Galva, Illinois, was bom February 8, 1849, '" Philadelphia, his parents being Joseph D. and Ann Elizabeth (Goetzinger) Gibbs, natives of Delaware county, New Jersey. The father came to Knox county with his father, Martin Gibbs, who located at Gibbs settlement, being at that time beside a Mr. Lafferty the only settler in Lynn township. Subsequently Joseph D. Gibbs returned home, going by boat as far as Pennsylvania and working his way overland through that state. The grandmother, Hannah Beck, died in Illinois, in 1849. Joseph Davenport Gibbs passed away in 1891.

After spending a few years in the common schools and attending Galva high school for two years and Coles Business College in Peoria, Illinois, William H. Gibbs assisted his father on the home farm until he was twenty-four years of age. At that time he was married and removed to the property which is now the Goff farm and where he remained fifteen years previous to coming to Galva, in 1890. Upon his arrival in this town he engaged in the insurance business, which he is still conducting in connection with the real-estate business.

Mr. Gibbs was married to Miss Harriett Westerdale, who is a native of London, England, having been born there in 1855. Her parents, William and Sophia (Bampton) Westerdale, formerly of London, came to Copley township in 1849 and engaged in agricultural pursuits, which they followed for many years. In the meantime Mr. Westerdale returned for a short visit to England and upon the conclusion of this he returned to Copley township, where he again took up his residence. His death occurred there in 1897, at the age of eighty-eight years. Mrs. Westerdale was a daughter of James and Henrietta Bampton, also natives of England, where the grandfather, William Westerdale, Sr., enlisted for active service in the Crimean war. He was a florist in London, and came to America with his family by way of Canada and settled near Peoria. Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs have become the parents of three children. Eva H., the eldest, is the wife of James S. Richmond, of St. Charles, Illinois. After graduating from Knox College she served as principal of the high school for six years. Jessie Bruce is teaching vocal music in Clinton, Illinois. She makes her home with her father. James Bampton is bookkeeper and auditor with Parlin & Orendorff at Canton, Illinois.

In politics Mr. Gibbs casts his vote independent of any party, voting for the man or measure which he thinks will be most effective in carrying out the policies which will promote civic welfare. He was town clerk for seven years, having been elected on the people's ticket. He holds membership in the Methodist church of Galva and is a member of the Mystic Workers. Mrs. Gibbs is a prominent worker for the temperance cause in her district and has served as president of the Galva Women's Christian Temperance Union for four years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs have won for themselves the respect and esteem of all who know them and the circle of their friends is almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintances. : '

Augustus L. Appell, who has been a resident of Lynn township since his birth on the Appell homestead, on the 23d of August, 1877, is a son of Charles L. and Sophia (Anderson) Appell. To the parents, whose births occurred on June II, 1837. and in April, 1849, respectively, eleven children were born, namely: Lydia, who is the wife of Rev. G. A. Brandell of Denver, Colorado; the Rev.

Alfred Appell, who is residing in Pittsburg; Hannah, who is married to Gust Liljaroot, of Lynn township, Knox county; Carl J., who is an attorney in Chicago ; Amanda, who is the wife of Otto Johnson, of Henry county, Illinois ; Augustus L., the subject of this review; Edward J., who is a resident of Lynn township; Alfrida and Ferdinand L., both of whom are residing at home; Martin, who is living at home ; and Edith, who is also residing at home.

Augustus L. Appell spent his boyhood and youth in the manner common to the average boy living on the farm. He attended the district school for a few years and at the same time assisted his father with the duties which daily came to hand on the farm. Later he devoted his entire time and efforts to agricultural pursuits in which his father was engaged, there learning to work along lines of profitable and practical methods. Subsequently he worked out as a farm hand until he was thirty years of age, when he began farming independently on a part of the home property, where he is now successfully engaged in general farming and stock-raising. During the five years of his management this property has been brought under a greater productivity than it ever before showed, and the energy, hard labor and attention to details which Mr. Appell is displaying will in future years bring him increasing returns.

On September 25th, 1907, Mr. Appell was married to Miss Esther Alfrida Nelson, whose birth occurred on the 22d of June, 1886, in Henry county, and who is a daughter of Bert L. and Anna (Westman) Nelson. The parents are fifty-five and forty-five years of age respectively and are residing in Galva. Illinois. They became the parents of four children, namely, Ambrose L., who is a resident of Henry county ; Mrs. Augustus L. Appell ; and Dora Norena and Edna, both of whom are living at home. .: -. . .- :;;.;- | .

Although Mr. Appell is very active in political circles and gives his support to the republican party, he neither seeks nor desires office excepting, where he can assist in promoting local welfare. At present he is serving his second term as justice of the peace. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, holding membership in the Lutheran church of Galva. In his community he enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him. accorded him because of the fidelity and integrity, which characterize all his undertakings and relations.

John Locklin, a native and lifelong resident of Rio township, was born January 1 6, 1865, his parents, Henry and Bridget (Welch) Locklin, both being natives of Dublin, Ireland. The father left his native country in the '5Os and after arriving in America, resided in New York state for one year before coming to Knox county and settling at Galesburg, where he engaged in farming. From that time until his death in Henry county, in 1902. at the age of sixty-seven years, he was an agriculturist. His farm comprises six hundred and forty acres and had been well cultivated for successful general farming. Mrs. Locklin, who is seventy-three years of age, is still a resident of Knox county.

John Locklin received his education in, the common schools and the remainder of his life has been spent in agricultural pursuits. Until he was twenty-nine years

John Locklix

Alfrctl Appcll. \vho is residing in Pittsburg; Hannah, who is married to Gust Liljaroot, of Lynn township. Knox comity; Carl |.. who is an attorney in Chicago; Amanda, who is the wife of Otto Johnson, of Henry county, Illinois; Auj,'ustns 1,., the subject of this review; Kdward J., who is a resident of Lynn townshi]); Alfrida and l-'enhnand I... both of whom are residing at home; Martin, who is living at home; and I'.dith. who is also residing at home.] - , -'

Augustus L. Api)ell sjjcnt his boyhood and youth in the manner common to tlic average boy living on the farm. He attended the district scliool for a few years and at the same time assisted his father with the duties which daily came to hand on the farm. Later he devoted his entire time and efforts to agricultural purstiits in which his father was engaged, there learning to work along lines of i)rotital)le and practical methods. Sttbse(|uently he worked out as a farm hand until he was tliirty years of age, when he began fanning independently on a ])art of the home ])ro])erty. where he is now successfully engaged in general farming and stock-raising. During the five years of his management this property has been brotight under a greater i)rodttctivity than it ever before showed, and the energy, hard labor and attention to details which Mr. Appell is displaying will in future years bring him increasing returns.

On .*>eptember 25th, 1907. Mr. .\i)pell was married to Miss Ksther .Mfrida Xelson, whose birth occurred on the 22d of Jtme. 1886, in Henry county, and who is a daughter of Uert L. and Anna (\\'estman) Xelson. The parents are I'lfty-live and forty-live years of age respectively and are residing in (Jalva, Illinois. They became the ])arents of fotir children, namely, .\mbrose L., who is a resident of Henry county; Mrs. .Augustus L. Aiipell ; and Dora Xorena and I'.dna. both of whom are living at home.

.\ltliough .Mr. Appell is very active in i)olitical circles and gives his support to the re])ublican party, he neither seeks nor desires office exce])ting, where he can assist in ])ronioting local welfare. .\t present he is serving his second term as justice of the iieace. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, holding membershi]) in the Lutheran church of ( lalva. In his community he enjoys the res])ect and esteem of all who know him. accorded him because of the fidelity and integrity, which chararteri/t- all his undertakings and relations.

John l.ocklin, a native and lifelong resident of Rio townshij), was born January if), iW>5, his jiarents, Henry and I'.ridget (Welch) Locklin, both being natives of Dublin, Ireland. The father left his native country in the '5os and after arriving in America, resided in Xew \or\< state for one year before coming to Knox county and settling at ( ialesburg, where he engaged in farming. From that time until his death in I lenry county, in 1902. at the age of sixty-seven years, he was an agriculturist. His farm comprises six hundred and forty acres and had been well cultivated for successful general farming. Mrs. Locklin, who is seventy-three years of age, is still a resident of Knox county.

John Locklin received his education in the common schools and the remainder of his life has been spent in agricultural ptirsuits. Until he was twenty-nine years of age he resided on his father's farm and assisted in its cultivation, here learning the methods which have brought his own farm to its high state of productively. He made his independent start on the property of three hundred and twenty acres which is still his home. Besides carrying on general farming he also raises cattle and hogs for market purposes.

, On January 25, 1894, Mr. Locklin was married to Miss Ella Torticill, the daughter of James and Mary Torticill, who reside on their farm in Sparta township. To Mr. and Mrs. Locklin was bom a son, Bernard. On the death of his first wife Mr. Locklin married Catherine Butler, and to them have been bom three children, namely: Eilene; Lucile; and Alice.

In politics Mr. Locklin gives his support to the democratic party, of whose principles he is a loyal supporter, and in religious faith he is a member of the Roman Catholic church. By devoting practically his whole attenticm to his chosen pursuit not only has he proven his worth and ability but he has also shown that the successful agriculturist is the one who possesses energy and power for indefatigable labor.

A highly prosperous agriculturist, who has acquired extensive property inter- ' ests in Rio township is J. H. Junk, whose realty holdings in Knox county aggre- -' gate twelve hundred acres. He is the second in order of birth of the four children in the family of Samuel and Anna (Henderson) Junk, his natal day being the 3Oth of January, i86i. The parents were both natives of Pennsylvania and there they were also reared and educated. Samuel Junk, although a carpenter by trade, engaged in farming during practically the entire period of his active life. He came to Knox county with his brother John, now a resident of Henderson, during the pioneer period. In 1867, he removed from Henderson to Rio township, where he bought a farm for ten dollars per acre, to the further cultivation of which he devoted his energies for many years. He subsequently retired from the work of the fields and he and the mother removed to Rio, where they lived the remainder of their lives. He passed away on the 8th of August, 1908, at the age of seventythree, and the mother, who was a daughter of Thomas and Hannah (Ehinlap) Henderson, died on the 24th of February, 1903.

After he had completed his studies in the district schools, J. H- Junk attended Knox College for a time and he also pursued a commercial course, thus better qualifying himself for practical business duties. In common with other lads who are reared in the country, he was early assigned duties about the barn and fields and by the time he had attained his maturity he had a thorough knowledge of the practical methods of agriculture. After completing his education he returned to the home farm, and has ever since engaged in agricultural pursuits with the exception of two years when he was in the hardware and also the realestate business, in Galesburg. He is a practical man possessed of foresight and sound judgment, and has so intelligently directed his undertakings that he has prospered. In 1903 he purchased the place, where he now lives containing three hundred and sixty acres of land. It is in a high state of productivity and equipped with good modern improvements and, an Mr. Junk takes great pride in his home- ' stead, he devotes much time to keeping up its appearance. Here he engages in general farming and stock-raising and under his capable and intelligent direction both are proving to be very remunerative. He annually reaps abundant harvests from his fields, the quality of which is fully commensurate with the quantity and he keeps a good grade of stock. Everything about his place manifests a careful regard for details and thrift, as well as the spirit of progress that characterizes the successful modern ag^culturist.

At Hennepin, Illinois, on the 2ist of September, 1887, Mr. Junk was united in marriage to Miss Leota N. Corson, a daughter of William and Harriet (Shinn) Corson. The father was a native of Northumberland, Pennsylvania, and the mother was bom and reared in Virginia. William Corson, who was a farmer, first located in Henry county, Illinois, but later went to Putnam county, whence he removed, in 1891, to Knox, and he and his wife went to Rio, where he lived retired until his death in 1910. The mother passed away in 1907. Three chil- - - dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Junk, as follows : Albertus and William, both of whom are attending high school ; and La Vonne, who is studying in the Knox Conservatory of Music.

Ever since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, Mr. Junk has given his political support to the men and measures of the democratic party and he takes an active interest in all public questions pertaining to the progress and welfare of the community. Mr. Junk is one of the enterprising and successful residents of Rio township, where he is held in high esteem by reason of his many fine personal qualities asi well as his business sagacity. ' .'-'-: . ' -^r ' -

Ned S. Stuckey, a resident farmer of Walnut Grove township, was bom July 22, 1877, on his present home place, and is a son of Richard C. and Mary (Tim- -I mens) Stuckey. His paterna! ancestors came from Germany to America at an early period in the development of this country. The grandfather, Charles Stuckey, married Rebecca Silvers and devoted his life to farming in Pennsyl- ,' vania. He died in 1872 at the age of seventy-two years. His son, Richard C. ' : i Stuckey, was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, March 12, 1833, and came ' to Knox county in May, 1853, locating on what has since been known as the <. old homestead farm. There he continued to reside until 1897, when he retired and removed to Altona, where his death occurred October 8, 1910. He wedded Mary Timmens, who was bom in Madison county, Ohio, February 29, 1836, a j daughter of Thomas Timmens, of Carlton, Pennsylvania, who was born in 1800 ' and died in 1863. In 1833 he removed to Ohio and became one of the active and -.. : progressive farmers of his locality and was especially prominent in the Univer- ' salist church. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Stuckey were bom nine children, ;)'; but five of the number are now deceased. More extended mention of the family ----. is made in connection with the sketch of Richard C. Stuckey on another page -' of this work.

After acquiring his education Ned S. Stuckey continued to engage in the work ; of the home farm, managing the place and carrying on its cultivation along progressive lines. His early training had been thorough and he has kept in touch with progressive methods, so that he is thoroughly familiar with the best ways ; of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. Everything about his place presents a neat and thrifty appearance and indicates his careful supervision. He is not afraid of work, and earnest, intelligently directed labor has been the basis of the . success which has come to him.

Mr. Stuckey was united in marriage to Miss Nellie Chapman, who was born ;. December 25, 1887, in Henry county, Illinois, and is a daughter of Robert and Carrie (Baer) Chapman. Her father is now living at La Fayette, Illinois, where he follows farming, but her mother died in 1910 at the age of forty years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stuckey have been born two children : Mary Irene, who was born October 17, 1908; and Jessie May, born September 3, 1910. Mr. Stuckey is a member of the Owl Lodge of Galva. He has never been active in f>olitics, pre- . ferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. The occupation r to which he was reared, he chose to make his life work, and in the further development of his farm in Walnut Grove township he is proving himself a - capable and progressive business man. His entire life has been spent in this - locality, where he now has a wide acquaintance, while his sterling traits of character have gained for him the friendship and regard of many.

John W. Asplund, who is an agriculturist residing on section 34, Ontario township, was born in Sweden on May 4, 1850, his parents being John P. and Anna (Lotta) Asplund, both of whom were natives of Sweden, the former having been born there in 1819 and the latter in 1829. The father was engaged in farming in his native country until he came to the United States with his family in 1867 and settled in Henry county, Illinois. They located hrst in Andover, where Mr. Asplund accepted employment on a near-by farm. He continued in this line of work until his death, which occurred in 1893. Mrs. Asplund passed away in Henry county several years later. Of their thirteen children, six came to the United States and three were born in this country.

John W. Asplund, who was the second child born to his parents, received a common-school education both in Sweden and in America and after he had laid aside his text-books was employed by the month at farm work until he made himself independent at the age of twenty-two years. Since that time he has operated a farm. In 1884 he came to Knox county and after renting for twelve years he purchased one hundred and forty acres, which is now highly developed and well equipped for modern and intensive cultivation. In addition to general farming he feeds cattle and hogs for market purposes and at one time was also extensively engaged in raising sheep.

Mr. Asplund has been married three times. On the 25th of April, 1873, he was married to Carrie Johnson, a daughter of Samuel Johnson, who is an agriculturist of Henry county, where he located in 1869. To this union five children were born, namely : Frank A., who is employed on a railroad in Nevada ; William W., an agriculturist of Illinois ; Peter M., deceased ; Josephine W., who is married to Oscar Hagerstrom, a plumber of St. Louis ; and Amanda C., who is residing in Galesburg and is the wife of G. E. Carlson, a railroad fireman and to whom one child, Frances Josephine, has been born. Mrs. Asplund's death occurred in August, 1882. Mr. Asplund's second union occurred in September, 1884, when he wedded Emma Christina, who was a daughter of Swan Johnson and whose death occurred in 1895. In October of 1897 ^^^- Asplund married Clara Anderson, a daughter of John August and Anna Anderson, of Burlington, Iowa. To this union five children have been bom, namely : Robert, deceased ; and Irene, Maria, Alma and John Wilbur.

Mr. Asplund gives his political allegiance to the republican party and in religious faith is a Lutheran, holding membership in the Swedish Lutheran church of Wataga. His fraternal affiliations are with the Masons of Oneida.

William Fritz, who is now living retired in Rio, where he owns a very comfortable home, was for many years actively engaged in agricultural pursuits in Knox county. His birth occurred in Milford township, Somerset county, Pennsylvania, on the 8th of February, 1834, his parents being Adam and Elizabeth (Phillippi) Fritz, who were likewise natives of Somerset county. In the paternal line he is of German extraction, the great-grandfather having been born and reared in the old country, whence he emigrated to America, settling in Pennsylvania. There his son, William Fritz, the grandfather of our subject, passed his entire life, devoting his energies to the operation of a large farm which he owned in Somerset county.

The boyhood and youth of William Fritz were passed in a community, where his family had resided continuously for three generations. He was given a common-school education, such time as he was not occupied with his studies being passed in a manner very similar to that of other lads of the same period and circumstances. After laying aside his school books, he gave his entire attention to the work of his father's farm, where he received a good training in the practical methods of agriculture. Later he worked for an uncle and a cousin, both of whom were farmers, continuing to reside in his native state until he had attained the age of eighteen years. In 1852 together with John B. SenneflF, a brother-in-law, Mr. Fritz came west, making the entire journey from Pennsylvania to Illinois in a wagon he had built for the purpose. Upon their arrival in this state they first located in Lee county. He remained there for a year and then went to Warren county, where he spent a similar period, his next removal being to Mercer county. There he acquired a farm that he successfully operated until 1875, when he disposed of it and came to Knox county, investing his capital in one hundred and thirty-seven and a half acres of land, located on the dividing line between this and Mercer counties. The further development of this place engaged the energies of Mr. Fritz until the 21 st of August, 1895, when he withdrew from the active work of the fields and removed to the village of Rio. Here f long years of labor and self-denial, but his life is far from being an idle one. as ' he owns four acres of land that he devotes to gardening. He has always been ^ too active and enterprising to retire from all work, and takes great delight in - keeping up his property and takes especial pride in his garden, which is said to be one of the finest in the village.

line C. Abell, a daughter of Simon Kingsley and Lydia (Proctor) Abell. The > .- father was a native of the state of New York and the mother of Vermont, but in : their early youth they removed to Ohio, where they met and were subsequently married. The father engaged in farming in Lake county, that state, for many , '- years, removing from there to Carroll county, Illinois, in 1852. The parents thereafter continued to reside in this state, passing away in Mercer county. The - paternal grandfather, Asa Abell, was one of the pioneers of Ohio, removing i there from New York, where he had always followed the carpenter and cabinet maker's trade. Six children have been bom unto Mr. and Mrs. Fritz. Charles - W., who was the eldest, died in infancy. Asa E., who owns a fine farm in Mer- ' cer county, married Clara Breckenridge, of that county, and they have eight children : William H. ; Lillian E. ; Raymond ; Donald, who is deceased ; John ; Ira ; ; Rollo; and Charles Wesley. Ira E., a twin brother of Asa E., completed his . education in the college at Shenandoah, Iowa, and is now eng^aged in the furni-

; ture business at Galesburg. Lillian A. lives in Galesburg, where she keeps house - for her brother. Fred married Eva Buffin and has two children, Blanche and - Charles. Carrie completed her education at Hedding College, after which she taught for a time in Rio township, but is now bookkeeper for the Anderson Hardware Company, at Rio. , .: . .'3 >

The religious faith of Mr. and Mrs. Fritz is manifested through their membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which they reared . their family. He is a republican in politics, but does not endorse the policy of this party regarding the liquor traffic, favoring the stand the prohibitionists take on this particular question. While residing in the country he served as school trustee and pathmaster, always taking an active interest in all township affairs. : : Mr. Fritz has led an unobtrusive but efficient life, having discharged his duties '--- from day to day to the best of his ability, his every act guided and directed by the high standards and upright principles that characterize the best type of citizens. . . ..... - . .

Gust Lofgren, who resides on his farm which is situated on section 12, Ontario township, was born in Kalmar, Sweden, July i, 1859. He was the son of John and Anna (Bowgren) Lofgren, both of whom were natives of Sweden. The father, who was engaged in farming there, died in 1859, when his son Gust was only eleven weeks old. The mother resided in her native country until 1883, when she came to America and spent her remaining days with a son in Sparta township. She died in 1907, at the age of eighty-three years.

Gust Lx)fgren was reared and received a common-school education in his native country, working on his father's farm until 1880. At that date he came to America, locating in Henry county, Illinois, where he remained five years. Subsequently he came to Knox county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, on which he now resides. He engages in general fanning and also raises hogs and cattle quite extensively. He is very successful in the financial world and owns stock in the Oneida Farmers' Elevator and also in elevators in Nekoma, and is a stockholder in the bank at Galva.

On the 8th of April, 1886, Mr. Lofgren wedded Miss Almeda Peterson, a daughter of Charles and Etorothea (Bloomberg) Peterson, of Henry county. The father was an old settler in that county, having come there in 1854, at the time of the construction of the railroad, and later engaged in farming. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lofgren have become the parents of three children, Ella, Edward and Dora. In politics Mr. Lofgren is a republican, and he has served as road supervisor. He gives much attention to the interests of education and has been a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are members of the Swedish Lutheran church at Altona and are highly esteemed residents of the community, having won the warm regard of all with whom they have come in contact. . -../-.

Jay Welsh, who owns and operates one of the largest farms in Truro town- - . . ' ship, was born in the township where he now resides, in i86i, and is a son of - >. Squire Michael Welsh. .. ^,. ., , . r..-

A descendant of one of Knox county's early pioneers. Jay Welsh is well known in this vicinity, where he has passed his entire life. When old enough to begin his education he entered the school of his home district, and was there introduced to the elements of English learning, afterward attending school at Maquon. His early schooling was subsequently supplemented by a course at Lombard College, from which institution he was graduated. Having been reared on a farm, when confronted with the necessity of selecting a vocation after leaving college, he decided in favor of the one to which he had been trained from childhood. That his decision was a wise one is manifested by the success attending his efforts. His is one of the most highly cultivated and best improved farms in the township. In the direction of his undertakings, Mr. Welsh has as rigidly adhered to system and method as he would have followed in directing either an industrial or commercial enterprise. He is practical in his ideas and progressive in his methods, and his personal attention is given to everything about his place. His fields annually yield abundant harvests, the quality of which is fully equal to the quantity, and in connection with his general farming he also raises stock of a good grade.

Mr. Welsh is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, and his political support he gives to the democratic party. He takes an active interest in township affairs of a governmental nature and has discharged the duties of tax collector, road commissioner and school director. The greater part of his life

Gust Lofgren \vas reared and received a common-school education in his native country, working on his father's farm until 1880. At that date he came to America, locating in Henry county, Illinois, where he remained five years. Subsequently he came to Knox county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, on which he now resides. He engages in general farming and also raises hogs and cattle quite extensively. He is very successful in the financial world and owns stock in the Oneida Farmers' Elevator and also in elevators in Xekoma. and is a stockholder in the bank at Galva.

On the 8th of April, 1886. Mr. Lofgren wedded Miss Almeda Peterson, a daughter of Charles and Dorothea (Bloomberg) Peterson, of Henry county. The father was an old settler in that county, having come there in 1854, at the time of the construction of the railroad, and later engaged in farming. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lofgren have become the parents of three children, Ella, Edward and Dora. In politics Mr. Lofgren is a republican, and he has served as road supervisor. He gives much attention to the interests of education and has been a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are members of the Swedish Lutheran church at Altona and are highly esteemed residents of the community, having won the warm regard of all with whom they have come in contact.

Jay Welsh

Jay U'elsh. wlio owns and operates one of the largest farms in Truro township, was born in the township where he now resides, in i86i, and is a son of Squire Michael Welsh. , - \

A descendant of one of Knox county's early pioneers. Jay Welsh is well known in this vicinity, where he has passed his entire life, \\hen old enough to begin his education he entered the school of his home district, and was there introduced to the elements of English learning, afterward attending school at Mac|uon. His early schooling was subsequently su])plemented by a course at Lombard College, from which institution he was graduated. Having been reared on a farm, when confronted with the necessity of selecting a vocation after leaving college, he decided in favor of the one to which he had been trained from childhood. That his decision was a wise one is manifested by the success attending his efforts. His is one of the most highly cultivated and best improved farms in the township. In the direction of his undertakings, Mr. Welsh has as rigidly adhered to system and method as he would have followed in directing either an industrial or commercial enterprise. He is practical in his ideas and progressive in his methods, and his personal attention is given to ever>'thing about his place. His fields annually yield abundant harvests, the quality of which is fully equal to the quantity, and in connection with his general farming he also raises stock of a good grade. I

Mr. Welsh is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, and his political support he gives to the democratic party. He takes an active interest in township affairs of a governmental nature and has discharged the duties of tax collector, road commissioner and school director. The greater part of his life has been devoted to farming, although for a number of years in his early manhood he engaged in teaching. He is widely known in this immediate vicinity, where he has many friends, the majority of whom have known him from, early boyhood and were the comrades of his youth. :'.';.;.:.-.';.

Among the residents of Altona and the northern part of Knox county are many of Swedish birth and the work which they have done in upbuilding and developing this section of the county is worthy of most favorable comment and consideration. Erich Larson is numbered among those whose labors have constituted a force for progress here, and in a review of his life in all of its connections one is reminded of the statement of an eminent lecturer who said that "Sweden is the home of the honest man." It has been this characteristic national quality of integrity that has constituted an important feature in the success of Mr. Larson, who for many years was identified with farming interests but is now living retired. He was born at Bollnas, Sweden, June 4, 1837. His paternal grandfather was Lars Larson and his father was Erich Larson, who died in 1849. He was a tailor by trade and started for America with his family in 1849. While en route his death occurred on Lake Michigan, being occasioned by cholera, and an older brother of our subject died in Chicago. There were altogether three of the family who died while en route. The others proceeded on their way to Andover and afterward became residents of Victoria, Illinois, Erich Larson accompanying his mother on that trip. They secured land in Knox county and engaged in farming. Mrs. Larson, who bore the maiden name of Anna Carlson and was a daughter of C. Carlson, long survived her husband and died in 1887 at the age of eighty-eight years, three months and ten days. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Erich Larson, Sr., were born seven children, of whom the following are now living : Caroline, who is the widow of P. Nelson and is a resident of Galva ; Anna, who is unmarried and lives in southern California ; and Erich.

The last named spent the first twelve years of his life in the land of his nativity and then started with his parents for the new world. His education i completed he worked on a farm, breaking the land, and when a boy of thirteen years did as much work as any man in the fields. He remained with his mother until he reached the age of twenty-two years and then started out independently, from which time forward he was indebted entirely to his own resources and his labor for the success which he achieved. After his marriage he removed to Victoria, where he resided for two years, when he purchased another farm, now the old home place. He afterward spent four years in Ontario township and then returned to his mother's farm, on which he lived for two years. In 1875 he located in Walnut Grove township, where he purchased a large farm, con-: tinuing thereon until 1904, when he came to Altona and retired. While actively engaged in business he converted his fields into productive tracts of land from which he annually gathered bountiful harvests. He used the most progressive

In i86i Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Mary Elizabeth Pitts, who was born in Henry county, Indiana, January i, 1837. Her great-grandfather was a native of Ireland. Her grandparents were John and Hannah (Hall) Pitts and her parents were William H. and Cynthia (Knight) Pitts. The father was born in North Carolina and became a shoemaker by trade. The mother ' was also a native of that state and was a daughter of Elias and Sarah (Cary) -- Knight, who were of English descent. It was in the year 1850 that the parents : , of Mrs. Larson came to Knox county from Indiana and later, in 1852, they .' removed to Iowa, where their last days were passed, the father dying in 1871 >j at the age of sixty-one years, while his wife passed away in 1875 at the age of j : sixty-four years. In their family were the following children: John W., who starved to death in Andersonville prison during the Civil war ; William Harvey, now living in Iowa, who was also a volunteer for the Union cause and was crip- < pled for life ; George M., a resident of Vinton, Iowa ; Elias H., who is also located in that state ; Aril Emery, of Kansas ; Mary Elizabeth, now Mrs. Larson ; Rachel - L., now Mrs. Brody; and Sarah, who is living in Vinton, Iowa, and is married .^ to Joseph Berry.

Unto the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Larson were born the following named : V Cynthia Ann, now deceased; George William, at home; John Henry, who was , bom in 1866 and is living in Walnut Grove with his wife, who was formerly . Ellen Swanson, and their four children ; and Emma Jane, who was born in ; _ 1869 and is the wife of E. E. Thrasher, who is living on the home farm. There - are two grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Helen May Walsh, who is the daughter of C. and Fay (Thrasher) Walsh.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Larson are members of the Baptist church and his politi- . cal allegiance is given to the republican party but while he has always kept well -, informed on the questions of the day, he has never sought nor desired office, -, preferring in his earlier years to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs ; and so capably and successfully did he manage his farming interests that he ^; gained in time a substantial competence, enabling him to live retired. He is' now seventy-four years of age and receives the respect which should ever be - accorded one who has traveled thus far the journey of life and whose record : has at all times been creditable and honorable. . .

Charles Austin is profitably engaged in general farming and stock-raising in Knox, his native county, his birth having occurred on the old homestead irt Walnut Grove township on the 2gtii of May, 1857. He represents a family which, long established in America, came originally from England. His grandparents, James and Beulah (Jennings) Austin, were both natives of Ohio, the former born in Preble county, September 5, 1798, and the latter on the 3Oth of April, 1798, and both lived to a ripe old age, the father's death occurring on the 28th of October, 1886, and the mother's on the 3Oth of September, 1888.

' on horseback. Subsequently he returned to Preble county, Ohio, and later again came to Knox county, the second trip being made on foot. Taking up his abode on a farm near Altona he there established what is now known as the

'- old Austin homestead, and there he engaged in agricultural pursuits until about nine years prior to his death, when he removed to Altona and lived retired until

, He was a faithful and consistent member of the Presbyterian church and was deeply interested in the public life of the community in which he resided, giving stalwart support to the party of his choice although not a politician in the sense

' of office seeking. He was twice married. On the i8th of May, 1856, he wedded Miss Louisa Gehringer, who was bom on the ist of May, 1839, a daughter of Levi Gehringer, who was born on the I4th of September, 1806. He married Catherine Reynard, who was born March 2, 1805, and died May 15, 1889. Her father, Henry Reynard, was a representative of a family that came to Knox county, Illinois, in 1855, from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. In the family of

- Mr. and Mrs. Allen Austin were seven children, of whom five still survive, as follows : Charles, of this review ; Emily, at home ; Albert, a resident of Douglas, Illinois; John, living in Burlington; and Harry, of California. On the 22i\ of April, 1878, the wife and mother passed away and for his second wife Mr. Austin chose Miss Emily Gehringer, a sister of his former wife. Unto the second union of Allen Austin there were born two children: Olive, the wife of William McClure, of Altona; and Ida, yet at home. The Gehringer family is of German origin and its representatives were numbered among the early settlers of Knox county, Illinois, whence they came from Pennsylvania at an early day. They ever took a deep interest in the work of the Presbyterian church. Charles Austin, whose name introduces this review, was reared amid the busy activities of rural life, spending the period of his boyhood and youth on his father's farm, and after securing a good education in the district schools of Walnut Grove township he assisted in the cultivation of the fields until after the death of his mother, which occurred when he was about twenty-one years of age. He then carried on agricultural pursuits independently on the old homestead for a number of years, and in 1898 took up his abode on his present farm, since which time he has concentrated his eflForts upon the further development and improvement of this place. He carries on general farming and stock-raising and in both lines is meeting with excellent success for his methods are practical, his ideas progressive and his well directed efforts and intelligently applied labor productive of good results.

On February 14, 1884, Mr. Austin was united in marriage to Miss Grace McGaan, who was born October 21, 1860, a daughter of William and Agnes (Andrews) McGaan, both of whom were natives of Scotland, the father's birth there occurring on the ist of January, 1817, and the mother's in the year 1819 Mrs. Austin's grandfather, William McGaan, Sr., was born in Scotland and there passed his entire life. He married a Miss Hunter. Their son William came to the United States with his family in 1857 and here took up farming near Altona, Illinois, following that line of activity throughout his active career.

In his family were three sons and one daughter, the brothers of Mrs. Austin Vbeing: William, an attorney of Clarke, Dakota; Hugh, operating the home .'[-.

Grace Ethel, who at the age of nineteen years is teaching school; and Charles .v- _-.,; R., fourteen years of age, who is also under the parental roof. I \\- '-..:-.; of well directed efforts in agricultural lines but also by the high place which he ,'..;' occupies in the esteem, good-will and confidence of his fellowmen.

Prominent among the farmers of this vicinity is Gustaf E. Fredricks, who accompanied his parents from their old home in Sweden on their journey to the new world and their new home which they established in Knox county, in 1857, when he was a lad five years of age. His birth occurred, October 23, 1852, his parents being Charles J. and Inga C. (Larson) Fredricks, natives of Sweden, where the father was a laborer. On their advent in this county they settled in Galesburg and lived there for two years, removing to Soperville, in 1859, where the father bought ninety-six acres of land and engaged in farming and teaming. In 1867 he sold this place and went to Log City and farmed there until 1870, then coming to Ontario township, where he bought a tract of land, comprising one hundred and sixty acres, at thirteen thousand dollars, and tilled the soil on this place until 1878, when he removed his family to Altona. In addition to his farming he ran a threshing machine for a great many years. His wife died January ii, 1892, at the age of seventy-four years, and his death occurred March 9, 1899, at the age of eighty-two years and twenty-five days. He was a man of means owning at the time of his death five hundred and twenty acres of land. In politics he g^ave his support to the republican party and with his family he worshipped in the Swedish Lutheran church of Altona.

Gustaf E. Fredricks acquired his education in the common schools and early in life devoted himself to agricultural pursuits working in the fields for a wage until twenty-three and a half years of age, when he rented a farm and started out for himself. Later he purchased the old homestead and has developed and improved this ever since, possessing a fine farm of two hundred acres of rich and productive land. He is a successful farmer and finds much pleasure in his daily round of labors in which he still continues since he has his son Newton with him who lightens the responsibilities greatly and performs the heavier duties. In addition to his farming he operated a threshing machine for thirtyfour years, which he ran for ten years by horse-power and during the latter twenty-four by steam. He uses a Case threshing machine and was one of the first in the county to buy a self-binder and a traction engine. He has provided a substantial income for his family and is accounted a man of wealth, who enjoys handsome financial returns, not only because he worked hard and lived simply, but also because he had good judgment and knew the value of sacrificing immediate enjoyment to permit him to accumulate means for future investments which he made wisely and with deliberation, for his own benefit and contributing to the commercial upbuilding of his community. He is a stockholder in the Oneida State Bank, in the Altona Bank and in the Galesburg Street Car Company. He also owns real estate of considerable value in Nebraska. :; On February 26, 1876, Mr. Fredricks was united in marriage to Miss Ida Matilda Walgreen, a daughter of Nelson P. and Johanna Walgreen, long since deceased, who lived in the county where the father carried on agricultural pursuits. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Fredricks : Clara A., the wife of C. E. Swanson, a tailor at Lewiston, Illinois, who has one daughter ; Mollie C., who lives at home ; Fannie C., at home ; Jennie, who is also living under the parental roof ; Emma R., at home ; Minnie H., who is a graduate of the Oneida high school, of Oneida and of Brown's Business College at Galesburg; Hilda C., a graduate of the Galesburg high school, who lives at Galesburg; and Qarence N., who assists his father on the farm. Mrs. Fredricks died on August 5, 1905, at the age of fifty-four years, her birth having occurred February 4, 1851.

Mr. Fredricks and his family belong to the Swedish Lutheran church of Altona. He gives his political support to the republican party and is an earnest worker for its issues and candidates, being elected on the ticket to the office of road commissioner and town supervisor, serving twelve years and four years respectively. Mr. Fredricks is a man of genial disposition and cordial bearing and has won many warm friends during the long years of his residence in Knox county. /';---.'->.-.:-..-;-;--..':-. ^ .:-- . - :;-o': --^-

Alonzo L. Roby, who rents a farm in Walnut Grove township, where he is eng-aged in farming and stock-raising, was bom January lo, 1874, at Bethesda, Ohio, his parents being Eriah and Martha (Hinkle) Roby. The father was also a native of Bethesda, who is living retired at the age of seventy-five years but the mother passed away in 1905 at the age of fifty-five years. They were the pafents of eleven children, six of whom survive, who beside our subject are as follows : Lola, who is the wife of R. Clay, of Belmont county, Ohio ; Ella, who is married to Jefiferson Medley, a resident of Morristown, Ohio ; Lily, who is the wife of Jesse Atkins, a resident of Bethesda, Ohio ; Ernest, who is residing in Barnesville, Ohio ; and Hugh, who is living in Belmont, Ohio.

Alonzo Roby spent his early days attending the common schools and accepting employment on the farm until he was eighteen years of age, when he re- moved to Knox county and engaged in farming pursuits for four years. Sub- ' sequently, in 1901, he rented the farm near Altona upon which he is now residing. He has met with unusual success in both general farming and stock- . raising, and to these pursuits has given his undivided attention, his early training

Mr. Roby has been twice married. His first union was to Mabel Shear, who was born on the 6th of September, 1876, and whose death occurred on the 4th of May, 1903. To this union three children were born: Ralph, whose birth occurred March 31, 1893; Warren, who was born September 28, 1896; and . Lelah, born November ii, 1899. His second union was to Mrs. Belle Gibson, the widow of Jerry Gibson, a native of Canada. Mrs. Belle Roby before her first marriage was a Miss Dixon, a daughter of George and Sarah Ann (Tedder) Dixon, both natives of Canada. The father was born in the province of Ontario, where he attended school and grew up, following the occupation of farming. He died in 1890. To them were born eleven children, in the following order of birth: John Nelson; Hannah Margaret, deceased; Isabelle, the wife

- of Alonzo L. Roby, our subject ; Mary Tedder ; George Warner ; Bertha Florence Elizabeth; Franklin James Alfred, deceased; Irene Lillian Gertrude; and three others who died in early life. Mrs. Roby removed to the United States from Canada in 1901 with her first husband, Mr. Gibson.

In politics Mr. Roby gives his support to the republican party and has done much active service in promoting its progress and influence. In religious faith ; both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church of Altona, Mrs. Roby holding membership also in the Ladies' Aid Society. Mr. Roby belongs to Lodge No. 330, A. F. & A. M., and is at present worshipful master of this , organization. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and . is the treasurer of this order, and is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, of Altona. He is a man of strong character, whose natural ability makes him a worthy representative in any community and he has won for himself a creditable place among Walnut Grove township's leading citizens. - /-.

Frank N. Gay, who since 1869 has been connected with the Farmers & Mechanics Bank of Galesburg, at which time he assumed the office of assistant cashier, was bom in Henderson, this county, June 20, 1845, his parents being Joseph and Maria Antoinette (Rhodes) Gay, both of whom were natives of Vermont. The father came west in 1838 and settled in Log City, Knox county, where he was employed in getting out timber for the old Galesburg House. At length he went to Henderson, where he built a store, and in addition to commercial pursuits there also engaged in farming, and buying live stock of all kinds, which he sold at St. Louis. He followed general merchandising until 1860, when, with a well earned and substantial competence, he retired from business life and came to Galesburg, where his remaining days were passed. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he filled a number of township offices, discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents.

moved to Knox county and engaged in farming pursuits for four years. Subsequently, in 1901, he rented the farm near Altona upon which he is now residing. He has met with unusual success in both general farming and stockraising, and to these pursuits has given his undivided attention, his early training fitting him for close application and scientific methods.

Mr. Roby has been twice married. His first union was to Mabel Shear, who was born on the 6th of September, 1876, and whose death occurred on the 4th of May, 1903. To this union three children were born : Ralph, whose birth occurred March 31, 1893; Warren, who was born September 28, 1896; and Lelah, born November ii, 1899. His second union was to Mrs. Belle Gibson, the widow of Terry Gibson, a native of Canada. Mrs. Belle Roby before her first marriage was a Miss Dixon, a daughter of George and Sarah Ann (Tedder) Dixon, both natives of Canada. The father was born in the province of Ontario, where he attended school and grew up, following the occupation of farming. He died in 1890. To them were born eleven children, in the following order of birth : John Nelson ; Hannah Margaret, deceased ; Isabelle, the wife of Alonzo L. Roby, our subject ; Mary Tedder ; George Warner ; Bertha Florence Elizabeth: Franklin James Alfred, deceased; Irene Lillian Gertrude; and three others who died in early life. Mrs. Roby removed to the United States from Canada in 1901 with her first husband, Mr. Gibson.

In politics Mr. Roby gives his support to the republican party and has done much active service in promoting its progress and mfluence. In religious faith both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church of Altona, Mrs. Roby holding membership also in the Ladies' Aid Society. Mr. Roby belongs to Lodge No. 330, A. F. & A. M., and is at present worshipful master of this organization. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is the treasurer of this order, and is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, of Altona. He is a man of strong character, whose natural ability makes him a worthy representative in any community and he has won for himself a creditable place among Walnut Grove township's leading citizens.

Frank N. Gay

Frank N. Gay, who since 1869 has been connected with the Farmers & Mechanics Bank of Galesburg, at which time he assumed the office of assistant cashier, was born in Henderson, this county, June 20, 1845, his parents being Joseph and Maria Antoinette (Rhodes) Gay, both of whom were natives of Vermont. The father came west in 1838 and settled in Log City, Knox county, where he was employed in getting out timber for the old Galesburg House. At length he went to Henderson, where he built a store, and in addition to commercial pursuits there also engaged in farming, and buying live stock of all kinds, which he sold at St. Louis. He followed general merchandising until 1860, when, with a well earned and substantial competence, he retired from business life and came to Galesburg, where his remaining days were passed. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he filled a number of township offices, discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents.

Both he and his wife held membership in the Congregational church. Mr. Gay . survived his wife for a considerable period, her death having occurred in Henderson in 1854. In their family were four children: David and Loraine, both now deceased ; William M., living in Madison, Wisconsin, who was born in Log ; City, August 30, 1838, and said to be the first white male child bom in the colony ; V and Frank N. -----:-':. -^ r ^ "-':'.:^- ''-':-.-:''''-'--

- for two years and subsequently spent a few years in the employ of E. F. Thomas, / to whom he returned after the suspension of Mitchell & Rhykerd. After the : death of Mr. Thomas he was with J. B. Colton, the successor of Mr. Thomas,

- and for six years was upon the road as traveling salesman in the boot and shoe ' trade. In 1889 he entered the Farmers & Mechanics Bank as assistant cashier, which position he still holds, and he is furthermore connected with the financial interests of Galesburg as a stockholder in the First National Bank. He is now well known as a representative of the banking interests of this city and county, : and his ability in this field is attested by his long connection with the Farmers & Mechanics Bank, covering a period of more than twenty-two years.

- Dellgratia Clark, a daughter of the Rev. William D. and Mary Qark, of Quincy, ' Illinois. Two children were born of this marriage but the elder, Frank Nelson,

Glaus Emil Quick

A large percent of the citizens of Knox county claim Sweden as the land of their nativity or that of their forefathers, and through the exercise of the sturdy qualities peculiar to their race combined with the more prog^ressive spirit of the new world, are meeting with substantial success in the various avenues of labor in which they eng^age. In this class is numbered Claus Emil Quick, who was born in Smalands, Jonkoping Ian, Sweden, on the 24th of June, 1859, a son of Carl Johann Quick, also a native of that country, his birth occurring April 9, 1823. The father, who was a son of Johan Johanson, followed the occupation of farming as a life work and also served for a time in the Swedish army. At an early age he married Fredericka Anderson, a daughter of A. Anderson, and in igcxD they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Of their family of nine children one daughter is now deceased. In 1875 four of their sons came to this country, locating in Altona, Illinois, where they worked as farm hands until 1886. The six succeeding years were passed in farm labor in Lynn township and then they moved to Walnut Grove township and rented land, where Claus Emil Quick has since engaged in general farming and stock-raising. In 1877 the father and remaining members of the family also came to the United States, and here the father passed away on the igth of April, 1910. The mother who still survives him at the age of eighty-four years, makes her home in Knoxville. . - .. ' |- - v:v-

Claus Fmil Quick was a pupil in the schools of his native town until twelve years of age, when he put aside his text-books to learn the tailor's trade. Two years later, however, not finding that field of labor congenial, he took up farming, to which occupation he has devoted his attention continuously throughout the intervening years. That these years have brought substantial success is due to the fact that Mr. Quick has ever made wise use of his opportunities and in the conduct of his affairs has manifested industry, perseverance and thrift, characteristic elements of the Swedish race. He has never been afraid of hard work but has labored untiringly in the prosecution of agricultural pursuits and as a result is today numbered among the enterprising and progressive farmers of his locality.

It was on the 6th of March, 1886, that Mr. Quick was united in marriage to Miss Helga Mathilda Amenoff, who was bom in Aspey, Linkoping Ian, Sweden, on the 1 7th of March, 1865. Her father, John Amenoff, was born in Sweden on the 29th of April, 1837, and is a son of Theodore Amenoff. The latter, a representative of a well known family of Sweden, was a merchant and official of that country, where he passed away on the 6th of August, 1871. He had married Sophia Ohnstadt, who was born in Sweden in i8io, and the only son born unto this union was John Amenoff, who in 1874 came with his family to the United States. He located upon a farm northeast of Altona, in Knox county, Illinois, and for twenty years was successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits upon that place. At the expiration of that period his accumulations made it possible for him to withdraw from active work and in 1906 he took up his residence in Altona, where he is now living retired. Ere leaving his native country he had been married, in i86i, to Miss Johanna Luisa Carlson, who was born on the 22d of October, 1835, a daughter of Carl and Adela Carlson, both now deceased. The father, a farmer by occupation, passed away in 1849 at the age of fifty years and the mother's death occurred in 1889 when she had reached the ripe old age of eighty years. Of their family of six children five still continue their residence in Sweden. Mrs. Quick was one of six children born unto John and Johanna Amenoff, and she now has one living brother, Alex, of Galva, Illinois. On December 15, 1911, Mrs. Johanna Luisa Amenoff, the mother of Mrs. Quick, passed away and was laid to rest in the cemetery at A.ltona. She was a lady of rare qualities and refinement and not onlv greatlv beloved by her immediate family but venerated by a host of devoted friends. By her marriage to Mr. Quick Helga Mathilda Amenoff has become the mother of three children. The eldest, Ida Charlotte, was born on the 2gth of July, 1887, and is now the wife of Ora Krumstadt, a resident of Galva. The second daughter, Minnie Olivia, born July 5, 1889, after her graduation from high school pursued a course of study at Geneseo school, and also at Valparaiso, Indiana, and is now successfully engaged in teaching school. Edward Theo, born October i, 1891, is still at home.

The religious belief of Mr. Quick is indicated by his membership in the Swedish Lutheran church of Altona, and in fraternal relations he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. Since becoming a naturalized American citizen he has given stalwart support to the republican party and for fifteen years has held public office, in the capacity of school director and also as road master. He has ever proved a most popular official and a valued, public-spirited citizen for his interests are thoroughly identified with those of his adopted country, for whose laws and institutions he has the highest regard.

' J. Alexander Finley, a resident of Knox county since he was four years of age, is a progressive and thoroughly modern man believing in the value of higher education both for its practical value as the shortest means of preparing adequately for a business or professional career and also for its purely aesthetic value, since education is the necessary basis for all broader culture and fuller enjoyment of the things worth while in life. He was born in Delaware, Ohio, March 26, 1839, his parents being Joseph and Jane (Ferris) Finley, the former a native of Highland county, Ohio, and the latter of West Virginia. The father, who followed agricultural pursuits with much success on his farm in Ohio, came to Illinois, in 1838, and purchased a quarter section of land. In 1843 he removed his family to his farm situated in Ontario township and became a resident of the county remaining here until his death in 1865. He was a prosperous farmer and at his death left a tract comprising five hundred acres of well improved farmland to be divided among his heirs. He was twice married, his first wife dying when J. Alexander Finley was aged two years, and his second marriage occurring in 1843, the year of his removal to Knox county. There were four children in the family, of whom the subject of this review was the third in order of birth. Mr. Finley was a supporter of republican policies and a loyal member of the Presbyterian church.

J. Alexander Finley had no educational advantages beyond the district schools of Ontario township, but what he was denied in his childhood he made up in later years and through his wide reading and careful observation gained a fund of information concerning the most varied topics, on which he discourses with much fluency and native charm. At the age of twenty-two years he interrupted his labors in the fields, where he had worked since old enough to assist his father, and enlisted in the army with Company D, First Regular Illinois Cavalry, on April 23, i86i, after Fort Sumter was fired upon. His company was mustered in July 15, i86i, and he was taken prisoner at Lexington, Missouri, and paroled, being mustered out July 14, 1862. He operated a farm for fortyone years, meeting with unusual success in raising crops and in his more specialized undertaking, the breeding of Clydesdale horses. He is the owner of four hundred acres of very valuable land which he cultivated until 1904, when he retired to Oneida and has lived there ever since.

On November 6, 1868, the marriage of Mr. Finley and Miss Mary E. Cox occurred. She was born in Somerton, England, and her parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Cox were natives of England, who came to America in 1853 and settled on a farm in the county. They are both deceased, the father's death having occurred in 1904, and the mother's some years earlier. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Finley: Gertrude, the wife of W. L. Allen, a retired farmer, who resides in Oneida; George, who attended Knox College and lives at home; J. Orton, who attended the State University of Illinois and now operates a farm, and is married and has two daughters ; Dr. Clyde A. Finley, who is married and practices as a physician at Galesburg, having received his professional training at Bellevue College, New York; and Louise B., who is a graduate of Knox College, and now teaching school in Eureka, Utah.

Mr. Finley is a republican in his political affiliations and with his family holds membership in the Congregational church of Oneida. Possessed of a keen sense of duty, he has devoted himself throughout his life to the interests of his family providing his children with every opportunity that lay within his reach in order to make of them exemplary men and women, such as we need in larger numbers in every state in the land.

-; James Cook, now deceased, was one of the prosperous agriculturists and extensive landowners of Knox county and his business record may well serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished when energy and determination lead the way. He was born in Roxburyshire, Scotland, October 22, i8i6, and his life record covered the intervening years to February 12, 1887, when he passed away. His parents were Robert and Janet (Lockie) Cook, who spent their entire lives in the land of hills and heather, where the father devoted his attention to farming. In their family were the following children : Jane, Agnes, Margaret, William, Janet, Mary, James, Elizabeth and Robert.

James Cook spent his youthful days in his native land and assisted his father on the home farm until 1836, when at the age of twenty years he bade adieu to home and friends and sailed for the new world. He possessed a young man's ambition to make the most of life and believed that better opportunities would be offered him in the United States. He first made his way to Buffalo, New York, and thence to Canada, where he continued for a time. He afterward went to Ross county, Ohio, settling near Chillicothe, and for six years was engaged as a drover, driving cattle to New York and Philadelphia. The ist of July, 1845, witnessed his arrival in Knox county, where he soon completed was mustered in July 15. i86i. and he was taken prisoner at Lexington, Missouri, and paroled, being mustered out July 14, 1862. He operated a farm for fortyone years, meeting with unusual success in raising crops and in his more specialized undertaking, the breeding of Clydesdale horses. He is the owner of four hundred acres of very valuable land which he cultivated until 1904, when he retired to Oneida and has lived there ever since.

On November 6. 1868. the marriage of Mr. Finley and ^liss Mary E. Cox occurred. She was born in Somerton. England, and her parents. Joseph and Elizabeth Cox were natives of England, who came to America in 1853 and settled on a farm in the county. They are both deceased, the father's death having occurred in i<)O4. and the mother's some years earlier. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Finley: Gertru<Ie, the wife of \V. L. Allen, a retired farmer, who resides in Oneida : George, who attended Knox College and lives at home : J. Orton. who attended the State University of Illinois and now operates a farm, and is married and has two daughters ; Dr. Clyde .\. Finley. who is married and practices as a physician at Galesburg. having received his professional training at Bellevue College. New York ; and Louise B.. w^ho is a graduate of Knox College, and now teaching school in Eureka, Utah.

Mr. Finley is a rei)ublican in his political affiliations and with his family holds membersbi]) in the Congregational church of Oneida. Possessed of a keen sense of duty, he has devoted himself throughout his life to the interests of his family providing his children with every opportunity that lay within his reach in order to make of them exemplary men and women, such as we need in larger numbers in every state in the land.

James Cook, now deceased, was one of the prosperous agriculturists and extensive landowners of Knox county and his business record may well serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished when energy and determination lead the way. He was born in Roxburyshire. Scotland. October 22. i8i6, and his life record covered the intervening years to February 12. 1887. when he ]>assed away. His parents were Robert and Janet (Lockie) Cook, who spent their entire lives in the land of hills and heather, where the father devoted his attention to farming. In their family were the following children : Jane. Agnes. Margaret. William. Janet, Mary, James. Elizabeth and Robert.

James Cook spent his youthful days in his native land and assisted his father on the home farm until 1836. when at the age of twenty years he bade adieu to home and friends and sailed for the new world. He possessed a young man's ambition to make the most of life and believed that better opportunities would be offered him in the United States. He first made his way to Buffalo. New York, and thence to Canada, where he continued for a time. He afterw-ard went to Ross county. Ohio, settling near Chillicothe. and for six years was engaged as a drover, driving cattle to New York and Philadelphia. The 1st of July, 1845, witnessed his arrival in Knox county, where he soon completed arrangements for the purchase of a farm near Rochester, becoming the owner - of one hundred and twenty acres. After two years he sold that property and ; purchased eighty acres on section i6, Copley township, to which he added from time to time as his financial resources permitted until he became the owner of ^ ' eight hundred acres of valuable Illinois farm land, all of which was in his possession at the time of his death. His last ten years were spent in honorable '' retirement from labor in the enjoyment of a rest which he truly earned and ' --: - richly deserved. .

On the 3d of March, 1853, ^^- Cook was united in marriage to Miss Ag^es - ; ' Stein, a daughter of Andrew and Margaret (Carr) Stein, of Edinburgh, Scot- r;; land. Her father, who was born near that city, devoted his life to farming and > ^ died in 1829. His wife was also born in the vicinity of Edinburgh and died in o May, 1867, at the age of seventy-five years. They were the parents of eight ' children: William, Mary, Isabelle, Janet and Margaret, all now deceased; :^

Agnes, now Mrs, Cook ; and John and Andrew, deceased. Of this family Agnes, the sixth in order of birth, became the wife of James Cook. She was born .- ing her visit became acquainted with Mr. Cook, who sought her hand in mar- ^ ; riage. She is now living with her daughter, Janet Cook, at No. 960 North -;

Cherry street in Galesburg, By her marriage she became the mother of seven children. Isabelle, the eldest, is the wife of Nathan A. Milroy, of Copley town- -' ship, and they have six children: Mary, the wife of Martin Gibbs, living in ' :. Victoria township; William; Samuel, living at home; Edna, the wife of Glenn : Gibbs, of Victoria township; Archie and James Milroy, both at home. William, the second member of the Cook family, is living on North Cherry street in . -

Helen Stephenson and they had one child, Marion, deceased. Janet, the third - of the family, is living with her mother. Margaret is the wife of Alexander Wylie, of Vinton, Iowa, and their children are: Mabel, James C., Jean, Agnes, 'v' Margaret, Effiie and Isabelle. Mary A. became the wife of Houston Tait but both are now deceased. They had three children: Agnes, the wife of Louis . Jamagin, of Victoria township; Dwight Cook, living in Cascade, Montana; and : Jennie Tait, whose home is in Copley township, this county. Agnes, the sixth member of the Cook family, is the wife of George M. Huston, of Miami, ' ' Florida, and their children are: Margaret, now deceased; Agnes; Georgine; '; :. and George. Elizabeth, the youngest member of the Cook family, died in in- .: ' fancy. Mrs. Cook now has four great grandchildren: Dale and Dean, sons /.,.' of Martin Gibbs; and Helen and May Louise Tait. ;., '

The death of James Cook occurred February 12, 1887, when he was in his ; ' seventy-first year. After taking out naturalization papers, he became a sup- . porter of the republican party and remained loyal to its interests. He served as school trustee and as road commissoner, yet was never a politician in the sense of the office seeker. He was always however, mindful of his public duty . and was faithful to every trust reposed in him. His widow remains a con- - -^ sistent and loyal member of the Presbyterian church to which Mr. Cook long '; belonged and in which he served as trustee. His was a well spent, useful life and at all times and in all relations his fellow townsmen found him an honor- i^ -

620 / HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY <..,:-:; Cvable man who held to high ideals and therefore commanded the respect and esteem of those who knew him. While more than a quarter of a century has passed since he was called from this life, he is yet remembered by many of the old settlers of the county who had for him warm esteem and the admiration which is always given to a successful man whose prosperity is well won.

James S. Payne, who is at present engaged as carrier in the rural delivery department of the United States postoffice, is residing in Altona, Knox county. His birth occurred on the I7th of March, 1865, in Harrisonville, Missouri. He was the grandson of William and Susan (Stephenson) Payne, both natives of Kentucky, and was the son of William B. Payne, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, who is at present living in Virginia, Illinois, at the age of eighty-nine years. William Payne started in life on his own account by accepting a clerical position and subsequently went to Harrisonville, Missouri, where he interested himself as partner with his former employer and engaged in the mercantile business for three years before removing to Virginia, Illinois, where he conducted a store. These various enterprises were both agreeable and profitable, and desiring to continue in the same line of business, Mr. Payne opened stores in Chandlersville and Ashland, Illinois. He was conducting these establishments at the time the new bankruptcy law became effective. This law affected his resources so badly that he lost practically all he had accumulated, and in 1898 was forced to retire. He was married to Hannah E. Allender, whose death occurred in 1895, and who was the daughter of Hiram Allender. To Mr. and Mrs. Payne eleven children were born, eight of whom are now living: John W., a resident of Kansas City; Eva, the wife of J. Chapman of Birmingham, Alabama; Richard and Wm. G., both of whom are residents of Kansas pty, Missouri ; Charles F., who is living in Hot Springs, Arkansas ; Henrietta, who is married to D. Crum, a resident of Virginia, Illinois ; Miranda, who is the wife of A. M. Thompson of Washington ; and James S., the subject of this review.

After finishing his education in the common schools, James Payne attended Brown's Business College at Jacksonville, and Illinois College of Jacksonville, Illinois, from which he was graduated and prepared to enter upon a business career. His first position was in Oberlin, Kansas, where he was a clerk in the government land office for two years. Subsequently he left for Tecumseh, Nebraska, and engaged in the abstract business in Johnson county. Returning to Illinois he was employed in Virginia as a department commercial clerk for a short time previous to leaving for Beatrice, Nebraska, where he was engaged as express and baggage man for the Burlington & Missouri River Railway, now a part of the Burlington system. Again returning to Virginia he served in the capacity of deputy sheriflF and ex-officio tax collector for three years and then left for Topeka, Illinois, where he purchased a drug store previous to going to Altona in 1896. Later he moved his drug store and, in 1901, entered the United States mail service as rural delivery man. At the present time he is serving in that capacity and is also interested in western real estate and other business enterprises. In all these positions Mr. Payne has shown a true regard for the essentials and principles of business and has been an accurate and reliable employe.

Mr. Payne was united in marriage to Anna A. Buckman, who is the daughter of C. F. and Mary E. (Mauck) Buckman, and was born on the 5th of August, 1870. The parents are both living and are very active in their home duties. Mr. Buckman was a soldier in the Civil war. To Mr. and Mrs. Payne three children have been born: Marie, who is twenty-two years of age; Cal C., who is twenty years of age; and Doris, who is fourteen years of age.

Mr. Payne gives his political support to the democratic party and, although he has never sought office, he has been very active in promoting the policies of the party he thinks will be the most effective in producing good government. Recently he was elected police magistrate but could not accept the office because of his official position in the United States postoffice. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Presbyterian church and he is also a member of the Knights of Pythias of Osceola, Iowa. At present he enjoys the confidence and respect of the members of his community, and both he and his wife are held in the highest regard because of their social characteristics and their sterling worth.

For more than half a century Charles H. Rhodes has been a witness of the progress in the material and intellectual development of Knox county, having been born in Henderson, March 3, 1854. His father, William 'M. Rhodes, a native of Vermont, came to Illinois and settled in Henderson in the year 1851 or 52, plying his trade, that of wagon-making, which he had learned in the east. He had a shop of his own for a time and found much demand for his services in those days, when much of the transportation of farm products was done by wagon before the ramified system of local railroads was installed. He married Mary J. Brown, a native of Henderson township and a daughter of Wilson Brown who came to Knox county from Kentucky in pioneer days. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes, of whom Charles H. Rhodes was the eldest. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church which lost a loyal supporter at the death of Mr. Rhodes in 1882. In his political allegiance he was a republican. ' ; . ;

Charles H. Rhodes was educated in the village school and became selfsupporting at an early age choosing farming for his calling, not only for the invigorating and varied nature of the labors which this occupation involves but also for the promising future which he foresaw. His judgment proved right as his later prosperity showed. In the choice of his home he always confined himself to the immediate vicinity of Henderson, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and six acres after some time and for twenty years devoted himself to its cultivation and development. He retired a few years ago and now rents the land from which he makes a good income. During the period of his activities

The marriage of Mr. Rhodes and Miss Frances Martin was solemnized February 1 8, 1880. She was born in Pennsylvania and was a daughter of William and Drusilla (Pope) Martin, natives of Pennsylvania, her father coming to Knox county in 1857, when he settled on a farm and followed agricultural pursuits throughout the remainder of his life. Three children were born to Mn and Mrs. Rhodes : Harry, who is married, a farmer in Ontario township, Knox county; Helen M., the wife of Fred Smith, a farmer, who has two children; and Margaret E., the wife of Harry L. Pople, employed in a general store in Monmouth, Illinois, who has one son, Irwin R. Dale.

Mr, Rhodes votes with the republicans and has been entrusted with the responsibilities of public office a number of times, serving as constable, justice of the peace and as school trustee, holding the latter office for a considerable length of time. With his family he worships in the Christian church of Henderson, believing in the doctrine of righteousness and truth as the basis upon which every religion and philosophy must be built. He is a man of serious mind and sterling traits of character devoted to his family and his friends.